IndyCar signs multi-year deal with Verizon for title sponsorship of series

INDIANAPOLIS – IndyCar has reached a multi-year agreement with Verizon that will make the telecommunications giant the title sponsor of the series.

Verizon replaces former title sponsor Izod and its sponsorship of what will now be known as the Verizon IndyCar Series launches with the March 30 season opening race.

The partnership announced Friday includes network coverage upgrades to Indianapolis Motor Speedway, as well as enhancements to IndyCar's race control and new pit lane monitors. New York-based Verizon, the largest U.S. cellphone carrier, also plans to enhance connectivity for spectators at domestic races.

Verizon has been an "official partner" of IndyCar for the past four years, and is the primary sponsor of Will Power's car with Team Penske. Verizon will also sponsor Juan Pablo Montoya in at least eight races this year.